FLINT TWP, MI — "Christmas in July" is extending the season that the Old Newsboys of Flint come into prominence hawking newspapers every December to help thousands of children.

In addition to other fundraisers each year, The Newsboys have added a major summer celebration this year to celebrate its 90 years of service to the community and to raise money for its three main programs.

The "Christmas in July" event will take place from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday, July 20 at the Holiday Inn Gateway Center, 5353 Gateway Center in Flint Township.

"Kids may not have a Christmas without the essentials provided through the Old Newsboys programs," said Chris Hamilton, executive director of the Old Newsboys of Flint. The organization has helped approximately 787,000 people since its inception in 1924, but 57,500 kids in Genesee County still need help, he said.

"Our goal is to raise $10,000 to help with our programs," Hamilton said.

The Christmas Box Program provides a new, age-appropriate toy or other gift and care package consisting of a sweatsuit, two pairs of socks, two pairs of underwear, stocking cap, pair of Thinsulate gloves and dental hygiene products to qualifying children.

The Warm Hearts and Healthy Starts Program provides shoes and coats to needy children and the Emergency Box Program helps entire families, including adults, get back on their feet after they lose everything in a fire or some other catastrophe. The Old Newsboys has many resources at its disposal, including slightly used donated household items for families that are burned out of their homes or apartments, Hamilton said.

Proceeds from the Christmas in July event will cover the meal as well as a commemorative pin for each person. The remainder of the money raised will benefit the three programs, he said.

The anniversary party is expected to draw hundreds of people, including many special guests including state and federal government officials, leaders in the business community and General Motors, UAW and civic leaders, according to its director.

"It is a milestone to celebrate the 90th year that Old Newsboys has been around helping needy children and families," Hamilton said. "The past presidents of the board of Old Newsboys has read like a who's-who of civic, community and business leaders since 1924," he said.

After the 2 p.m. dinner, the charitable organization will recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that have helped Old Newsboys. Additionally, the charity will receive proclamations from local, state and federal politicians to honor Old Newsboys for their accomplishments over the past 90 years.

Old Newsboys asks that anyone with ties to the organization who is in possession of old photos or other artifacts from the past contact the Flint office at 810-744-1840. Donations of items are being accepted at the Old Newsboys Flint office located at 6255 Taylor Drive in Flint Township. Those unwilling to part with their relics can donate the items for the day, and pick-up is available upon request as well.

"There are over 45,000 kids that live at the poverty level in Genesee County and we know we make a difference as a safety net with the programs that we administer," said Hamilton.

Tickets for the event are $50 each or $90 per pair.

For more information on sponsorship or to purchase tickets, visit www.onbflint.org or call the Old Newsboys office at 810-744-1840.